The Vacancy
Technical Services Manager
Location: Southampton (Hampshire Blue Light Contract)
About The Role
We are seeking an experienced Technical Services Manager to join our team supporting the Hampshire Blue Light contract. This is a key operational and technical role where you will oversee the delivery of building services, compliance, planned maintenance, and technical solutions across a vital public-sector portfolio.
You will act as the technical expert for the contract—ensuring high levels of building performance, statutory compliance, and safe, efficient service delivery. This is an exciting opportunity for a customer-focused professional who thrives in a fast-paced, operational environment.
Key Responsibilities
Lead all technical services activities across the Hampshire Blue Light estate, ensuring full statutory and contractual compliance.
Manage building services performance, including mechanical, electrical, and specialist systems.
Oversee planned and reactive maintenance delivery, working closely with operational teams and supply chain partners.
Provide technical expertise, guidance, and assurance to internal teams and the client.
Lead on asset management, lifecycle planning, and technical improvement projects.
Review, audit, and report on compliance performance, identifying areas for improvement.
Support on commercial and contract matters including variations, quotations, and technical scoping.
Build strong working relationships with the client, ensuring high satisfaction and clear communication.
About You
We're looking for a proactive and confident leader with:
Strong technical knowledge of M&E or building services.
Experience managing technical or compliance-led FM services within a similar environment (Blue Light/public sector desirable).
Excellent understanding of statutory compliance requirements and H&S legislation.
Ability to interpret technical reports and provide clear recommendations.
Strong relationship management and stakeholder engagement skills.
A problem-solving mindset and the ability to work under pressure.
Relevant technical qualifications (HNC/HND, degree, or equivalent in a building services discipline) are highly desirable.
What We Offer
Opportunity to work on a contract supporting essential public services.
A collaborative and supportive team environment.
Clear opportunities for professional growth within WPS
Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
Given the nature of this position, you will need to undergo a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) at offer stage. Applicants with criminal convictions will be assessed individually, and we assure you that we do not discriminate based on an applicant's criminal record or the details of any disclosed offenses. Additionally, certain roles may be subject to additional pre-employment checks.
To learn more about the checks included in this process, please click on the following link: National Security Vetting
Work for Wates
Wates is one of the UK's leading family-owned development, building and property maintenance companies. Founded over 125 years ago, we have a proud legacy in the built environment.
We are driven by our purpose, 'reimagining places for people to thrive' and our three promises:
Thriving places – working with customers, partners and communities to create places that are more sustainable, inclusive, and full of opportunity.
Thriving planet – protecting nature and taking action on climate change by collaborating and innovating with our partners.
Thriving people – creating opportunities and relationships so that everyone who works for and with us feels included, invested in, and treated with care.
We are proud to be recognised as Gold Investors in People and as a Disability Confident employer. We also ensure that our recruitment processes do not treat anyone less favourably due to an offending background.
Work for Wates
Wates Group is one of the largest, and most successful family-owned private construction, development, and property services companies in the UK. We are building a place to work where everyone belongs, by one small act of inclusion at a time. We celebrate difference and welcome diversity.
As a responsible and inclusive employer, we are committed to equality and are proud to have been recognised for this through a range of accolades including gold accreditation with Investors in People, we are also a Disability Confident employer. Being a family owned, business means we understand and value long term relationships.
The Wates Group are committed to three ambitious environmental targets for 2025: Zero Waste, and Zero Carbon, from our operations and Positive Nature Enhancement. Wates are pushing to take a leading role in reducing our industry's environmental impact.